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Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve adventures

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve Adventures

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve protects a remote island archipelago renowned for its rich Haida culture, pristine temperate rainforests, and abundant marine life, offering unparalleled opportunities for wilderness exploration and cultural discovery.

138,000
Acres Protected
50+
Miles of Trails
Approximately 4,000
Annual Visitors
1988
Year Established

About Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
 

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site is located in the southern part of Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off the northern coast of British Columbia, Canada. The park encompasses over 1,500 islands and islets, covering both terrestrial and marine environments. Its rugged coastlines, lush old-growth temperate rainforests, and ancient Haida village sites illustrate a landscape shaped by natural forces and a profound cultural legacy. The park is co-managed by the Haida Nation and the Government of Canada, emphasizing preservation of Indigenous heritage alongside ecosystem protection. Visitors encounter diverse ecosystems ranging from dense cedar and spruce forests to sheltered fjords and kelp forests teeming with marine species such as sea otters, orcas, and numerous seabirds. Outdoor activities include guided kayaking through sheltered waterways, hiking through cultural and ecological trails, wildlife viewing, and camping in remote backcountry settings. Notable landmarks include the ancient village of SGang Gwaay Llanagaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its monumental canoes and totem poles, and Ninstints. The park's remoteness and cooperative management approach offer a unique wilderness experience that blends natural beauty with deep cultural significance, attracting travelers interested in ecology, history, and Indigenous stewardship.

Highlights

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SGang Gwaay Llanagaay Haida Village – UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic totem poles

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Old-growth temperate rainforests featuring ancient cedar and spruce trees

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Exceptional marine wildlife viewing opportunities, including sea otters and orcas

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Remote kayaking routes through inlets and protected marine waters

Notable Natural Features

SGang Gwaay Llanagaay

An ancient Haida village site featuring impressive totem poles and remains of longhouses, emblematic of Haida culture and history.

Temperate Rainforest Ecosystem

Dense, old-growth forests dominated by Western red cedar and Sitka spruce, hosting diverse flora and fauna.

Marine Waters of Gwaii Haanas

Protected ocean areas rich with marine mammals, fish, and seabirds, offering exceptional ecological diversity.